Gift of the Season

The roads of Napa Valley are now dotted with wineries at every turn – some grand, some small, some new and some old. Quaint towns with boutique stores, gourmet cafes and Michelin star restaurants are nestled between rows and rows of vines. Hard to believe this area was just agricultural land 30 years ago.

Napa Valley is a destination, and a worthy one at that. Though there is much hype and money surrounding the area, the valley still stands as the gateway to California wine. It is the place that put California – and the US – on the wine map. That all happened 30 plus years ago, in 1976, when Chateau Montelena Chardonnay beat out classic Burgundy wines at a tasting in Paris, a story recently re-told in the movie, Bottle Shock.

Speaking of which… Chateau Montelena is now one of the most respected and revered wineries in Napa. Established in 1882, the winery is known for its beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. This is a stately and classic property to visit, though appointments are required. Which leads us into the purpose of our Tip of the Day – Gift of the Season.

This year we introduced a new gift called “By Appointment Only.” It’s a new style of gift for us because it includes a unique experience not offered anywhere else. Beyond the three classic wines included in this package, the gift includes an experience, an incredible, one-of-a-kind experience.

But much more than that, you receive passes for you and up to 3 guests for a VIP tour and tasting at each of the wineries, which are typically closed to the public and are open by appointment only.

Why is this so special? It really is about the experience. Wines can be bought and consumed anywhere, but the tour, the tasting, the exciting opportunity to visit these historic and classic properties is truly extraordinary. It’s not just a visit. You’ll taste current, past and future releases, including barrel samplings. You’ll receive tours of the vineyard (weather permitting) and winery, with red carpet treatment at every turn. At each visit you will experience history, innovation and passion.